Find Credible Cancer Resources

Cancer is a complex topic, even more so for children. Whether they’re facing their own diagnosis, have a family member battling cancer, or are simply curious, finding reliable information can be challenging. And in today’s digital age, where information is readily available at our fingertips, many children will take to the internet looking for answers about their diagnosis. It’s very apparent that empowering kids to find credible cancer resources and verifying the accuracy of the information they find is critical. Here are some tips to help guide children in navigating the vast sea of information to find resources they can trust.

NOTE: Remind children that information they find online and in print is a tool to help them learn more about their diagnosis. But it should never replace their doctor’s advice.

Start with Trusted Organizations to Find Credible Cancer Resources

Many pediatric cancer patients look to the internet for answers when they receive their cancer diagnosis. As a matter of fact, laptops and tablets like the one’s Mikey’s Way distribute provide an excellent research tool. But it’s vital that children understand the importance of critically evaluating the information source. So, the first step in empowering kids to find credible resources is encourage them to begin their research on reliable websites. Rather than typing their diagnosis into a search engine, they should go directly to the websites of reputable organizations. These include organizations such as the National Cancer Institute (NCI), American Cancer Society (ACS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC ), cancercare, or Children’s Cancer Research Fund. And they should look for clues like domain names which often indicate reputable organizations.

According to the National Cancer Institute, the person or group that has published health information online should be easy to find somewhere on the page. They recommend looking at the letters at the end of the web address to see what type of organization is sponsoring the website. Government, universities and educational institutions are sources that you can usually trust. Government websites end in “.gov”. Educational institutions and universities end with “.edu”. Furthermore, check for references and citations to ensure that the information is based on scientific evidence. (1)

Look for Medical Endorsements and Cross-Check Information

Teach children to pay attention to the authors of the content they are reading. Articles and information written by healthcare professionals, researchers, or organizations with expertise in oncology are more likely to be reliable. Encourage them to check the author’s credentials and affiliations to ensure credibility.

Encourage children to cross-reference information from multiple reliable sources. If they come across conflicting information, they should consult their healthcare provider for clarification. Emphasize the importance of corroborating information to ensure accuracy.

Beware of Biases When Finding Credible Cancer Resources

Discuss with children the presence of biases in online content, such as promotional material from pharmaceutical companies or personal opinions masquerading as facts. Encourage them to be critical of information that seems overly promotional or lacks supporting evidence.

Avoid Anecdotal Evidence

Help children understand the difference between anecdotal evidence and scientific evidence. While personal stories and testimonials can be powerful, children should never use them as a basis for making any medical decisions. Prioritizing information backed by scientific research and clinical trials is important for children to do.

How Current is the Information

Researchers are rapidly making advances in cancer treatments. Therefore, treatments that were used a few years ago, may no longer be the only option available. Look for information that shows when the information was posted or last reviewed.

Consult with Healthcare Providers

Above all, emphasize the importance of consulting with healthcare providers. Encourage children to discuss any information they find online with their doctors or oncologists. Their healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and address any concerns or questions regarding their diagnosis and treatment options.

Empowering Kids to Find Credible Cancer Resources

Navigating the web for information about a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming especially for children. By teaching them to identify reliable sources, evaluate information critically, and consult with healthcare care providers, we empower them to make informed decisions and navigate their cancer journey with confidence.

Additional Resources:

National Cancer Institute, How to Find Cancer Resources You Can Trust
Children’s Cancer Research Fund, How to find reliable cancer resources

(1) How to Find Cancer Resources You Can Trust was originally published by the National Cancer Institute.